TEN WAYS TO KEEP THE KIDS ENTERTAINED DURING THE SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

With the school holidays just a few weeks away, are you already thinking about how to keep your children entertained? From creative activities to outdoor adventures, here are the top ten ways to ensure they have a fun and productive holiday break.

1. SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS

Turn your home into a mini-science lab with easy and safe experiments. Kits are available that include all the necessary materials, or you can use common household items. Experiments like making slime or baking soda volcanoes are both educational and entertaining.

2. OUTDOOR SCAVENGER HUNT

Take advantage of any nice weather and organise an outdoor scavenger hunt. Create a list of items for your kids to find in the backyard or at a local park. This activity encourages them to explore nature and learn about their surroundings while having a great time.

3. ARTS AND COLOURING 

Colouring doesn't have to be restricted to one book. Digital platforms like ColourSNP offer an affordable annual subscription that gives families access to thousands of fun colouring sheets. It even has an AI generator to make your own unlimited colouring pages to print out for kids. This activity not only keeps them entertained but also helps develop their fine motor skills and creativity.

4. BAKING AND COOKING

Get your children involved in the kitchen. Choose simple recipes they can help with, like baking biscuits or making pizzas. Cooking teaches kids important life skills, and they get to enjoy the delicious results of their efforts and working with you towards a satisfying end result.

5. READING TIME

Encourage your kids to read by creating a cosy reading nook at home. Stock it with books that are age-appropriate and interesting. Libraries often have reading programs and summer challenges that can motivate children to read more. Consider borrowing for free at your local library – an excursion in itself.

6. EDUCATIONAL APPS AND GAMES

There are countless educational apps and games available that make learning fun. Whether your child is interested in maths, science, or history, you can find an app to entertain and educate them. 

7. DIY CRAFT PROJECTS

Set up a craft station at home with supplies like paper, glue, markers, and recycled materials. Websites like Pinterest are full of ideas for simple DIY projects. From making friendship bracelets to creating homemade puppets, crafts can keep kids busy for hours while nurturing their creativity.

8. SPORTS AND PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES

Keep your kids active with sports and physical activities. Sign them up for a local sports camp, or simply organise games like soccer, basketball, or relay races in the backyard. Physical activity is essential for their health, helps burn off excess energy, and helps them get a good night’s sleep! For an individual activity think totem tennis or installing a basketball hoop.

9. GARDENING

Introduce your children to gardening by starting with easy-to-grow plants like herbs or flowers. Gardening teaches kids about nature and responsibility, and they’ll be excited to see the fruits of their labour grow. Seedlings and pots are cheap to find at Bunnings. 

10. FAMILY MOVIE NIGHTS

After a fun-filled day, there's no better way to end it than a family movie night. Let your kids pick the film, make popcorn, and enjoy quality time together. It's a great way to relax and bond as a family. Perhaps combine it with a family BBQ.